Published Mar 06, 2024 | 11:42 AM ⚊ Updated Mar 06, 2024 | 11:42 AM
Falsified drugs seized by DCA. (Supplied)
The Drugs Control Administration in Telangana has raised an alarm about certain drugs labelled as products of “Meg Lifesciences, Khasara No. 47/5, Palli Gaon, Distt. Sirmour, 173 001,” circulating in the market. The investigations reveal that “Meg Lifesciences” is a non-existent company.
These drugs have been found to be not only fake but also dangerous, as they contain harmful substances like chalk powder, and starch instead of any active ingredients making them “Nil” medicines. Manufactured by individuals with criminal intent, these medicines pose serious health risks to consumers.
The DCA seized stocks worth ₹33.35 lakh during recent raids and have taken legal action against those involved in this illegal drug operation.
They have also issued a public advisory to the consumers, and healthcare professionals to immediately stop using the drugs manufactured by said firm, and also asked the retail and wholesale sellers to stop selling them.
On 27 February, in a joint operation named “Operation JAI,” the Drug Control Administration (DCA) of Telangana, Commissioner’s Task Force, Hyderabad, and Malakpet Police discovered 27,200 spurious tablets of the antibiotic “Mpod-200” (Cefpodoxime Proxetil & Lactic Acid Bacillus tablets) worth ₹7.34 lakh, manufactured by the fictitious company, “Meg Lifesciences”.
The DCA has urged the public to stay vigilant and report any information about the distribution or sale of drugs claiming to be from “Meg Lifesciences” to the nearest Drugs Control Administration Office with the help of contact information available under the “Key Contacts” section on the website or through the toll-free number 1800-599-6969 between 10:30 AM to 5 PM.
Misleading drug seized. (Supplied)
In another raid conducted in the Nalgonda district, the DCA seized the drug “Minoxytop 10%” (Minoxidil Topical solution USP 10% w/v) for making a misleading claim on the label that the drug is meant for the “growth of new hair”.
Such claims are considered to be misleading for drugs under the drug rules.
According to Schedule J of the Drugs Rules, it is prohibited for drugs to make claims about treating specific diseases and disorders. Labels on drugs are not allowed to assert that they prevent or cure conditions listed in Schedule J of the Drugs Rules.
The said drug was seized in a raid conducted by the DCA officials, from Sri Sai Ram Pharma and Surgical, in Nalgonda. It was manufactured by Healing Pharma India, based in Gujarat.
